HersbruckervsSimcoe

Hersbrucker (aroma) and Simcoe (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Hersbrucker

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Simcoe

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrangeTobacco

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegumCitrus

Property

PropertyHersbruckerSimcoe
Alpha acid1.5–5%11–15%
Beta acid2.5–6%3–5%
Co-humulone17–25%15–21%
Total oil0.5–1.3 mL0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene15–30%40–50%
Humulene20–30%15–20%
Caryophyllene8–13%8–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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